Bhubaneswar: The Police Commissionerate of Bhubaneswar-Cuttack will deploy 50 police platoons across Cuttack to strengthen security ahead of the historic Baliyatra festival. Scheduled from November 5 to 12 along the banks of the Mahanadi River, the festival is expected to attract large crowds from across the state.
“The safety of visitors is our top priority. To manage crowd control, traffic flow, and emergency situations, we will deploy 50 platoons of security personnel, each comprising 30 members, at strategic locations across the city. In addition, around 20 control rooms, along with a central control room, will be operational to coordinate all security measures effectively,” said Commissioner of Police S. Dev Datta Singh while speaking to the media.
He added that the arrangements will include traffic management, drone surveillance, missing person alerts, and designated parking zones to ensure a smooth experience for festival-goers.
“Today, we briefed police officials on their specific roles and responsibilities. The combined deployment of manpower and technology will help prevent any untoward incidents during the festival,” Singh said.
The Police Commissionerate has also designated 10 parking areas for visitors:
- Krushak Bazaar Ground, Bidanasi
- Bhuasuni Ground
- Gorakabar Ground (Two- & Four-wheelers)
- Christian Ground near Anand Bhawan (Two- & Four-wheelers)
- In front of Chief Justice Residence – Silver City Boating Club Parking 1, 2, 3 & 4
- Matamatha Parking Ground
- Parking near BOSE Engineering College
- Hadia Patha Parking
- Upper Baliyatra Ground – Zone-1 & Zone-2 (Two-wheelers only)
The Commissionerate emphasised that these measures are being taken in the larger interest of public safety. Violations of the order will be punishable under Section 96 of the Odisha Urban Police Act, 2003.
